The European Commission can confirm that on
8th November 2007 Commission officials
carried out unannounced inspections at the premises of manufacturers of cathode
ray tubes (CRTs). Cathode ray tubes are used in television sets and computer
monitors. The Commission has reason to believe that the companies concerned may
have violated EC Treaty rules on cartels and restrictive business practices
(Article 81).

The Commission officials were accompanied by their counterparts from the
relevant national competition authorities.

Surprise inspections are a preliminary step in investigations into suspected
cartels. The fact that the European Commission carries out such inspections does
not mean that the companies are guilty of anti-competitive behaviour; nor does
it prejudge the outcome of the investigation itself. The European Commission
respects the rights of defence, in particular the right of companies to be heard
in antitrust proceedings.

There is no strict deadline to complete cartel inquiries. Their duration
depends on a number of factors, including the complexity of each case, the
extent to which the undertakings concerned co-operate and the exercise of the
rights of defence.